Tuesday, January 24, 2017

#OLW for 2017 - #SOL 1/24/17

I'm currently in a bit in shock; in fact, I shed tears when it happened. After graduating with a degree in education 40 years ago, and spending over 36 of those years in public education, Monday was a new milestone for me... I submitted my retirement letter to our Board of Education, effective May 31, 2017.

How is that possible?!! I have loved almost every minute of my career in education. It was never just a job for me; it was a passion, and still continues to be.

So, what does this have to do with choosing my One Little Word for 2017? I've been thinking about a guiding word to help me navigate these new roads head, whatever they may be. I want to be present in all these "last" moments of my full-time career, and I also want to look ahead with excitement and expectancy to the new experiences that lie ahead. So many possibilities.

Several words crossed my mind, but I kept coming back to the same one: SAVOR.

I want to savor the moments and memories and learning and collaboration with colleagues between now and May 25 (our official last school day this year).

And as I embark on new journeys beginning June 1, I want to savor all the new possibilities that will make themselves known to me. I want to travel a great deal, do more writing, connect with friends and family regularly, give back by volunteering, stay open to part-time opportunities in education, spend more time on our screen porch, learn new things.

I LOVE this OLW! I'm going to write it down as a possibility for next year. There's so much in life we can savor but forget to savor. Good luck savoring your last few months of your teaching career and savoring your new normal!

Congratulations, Karen! I will always appreciate your kindness and generosity to me when we met at Nerd Camp. You champion and connect others in such an inspirational, open-armed way. Wishing you a wonderful, well-savored 2017.

Karen,I think more time on your screened in porch sounds like he perfect idea. I know a few friends who are always happy to join. I know this word, and your decision, have not come easily. I just smile thinking of all the lives you have touched, all I have learned from you, and all the stories ahead.